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Approximation techniques were used instead of expensive computing analysis in a traditional parametric design optimization of a complex system. A Kriging meta‐model was utilized, which enabled the fit of approximated design characteristics for a complex system such as turbine blades that incorporate a large number of design variables and non‐linear behaviors. This paper aims to discuss these issues.

The authors constructed a Kriging meta‐model with a multi‐level orthogonal array for the design of experiments, which were used to optimize the fatigue life of turbine blades under cyclic rotational loads such as centrifugal force. By combining a seven‐level orthogonal array with the Kriging model, the non‐linear design space of fatigue life was explored and optimized.

A computer‐generated multi‐level orthogonal array provided a good representation of the non‐linear design space information. The results show that not only was the fatigue life of the leading edge of the blade root significantly improved, but also that the computing analysis was effective.

To maximize the fatigue life of the turbine blade, the three‐design variables with seven factor levels were optimized via a Kriging meta‐model. As with the optimization technique, a desirability function approach was adopted, which converted multiple responses into a single response problem by maximizing the total desirability.

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the research conducted among the interim, dyadic interactions that bridge the stand-alone measures of economic, environmental and social performance and the level of sustainability, as suggested in the Carter and Rogers (2008) framework.

This paper conducts a systematic literature review based on the Tranfield et al. (2003) method of the articles published in 13 major journals in the area of supply chain management between the years 2010 and 2016. Results were analyzed using an expert panel.

The area of research between environmental and social performance is sparse and relegated to empirical investigation. As an important area of interaction, this area needs more research to answer the how and why questions. The economic activity seems to be the persistent theme among the interactions.

The literature on the “environmental performance and social performance (ES)” interactions is lacking in both theoretical and analytical content. Studies explaining the motivations, optimal levels and context that drive these interactions are needed. The extant research portrays economic performance as if it cannot be sacrificed for social welfare. This approach is not in line with the progressive view of sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) but instead the binary view with an economic emphasis.

To improve sustainability, organizations need the triple bottom line (TBL) framework that defines sustainability in isolation. However, they also need to understand how and why these interactions take place that drive sustainability in organizations.

By examining the literature specifically dedicated to the essential, interim, dyadic interactions, this study contributes to bridging the gap between stand-alone performance and the TBL that creates true sustainability. It also shows how the literature views the existence of sustainability is progressive, but many describe sustainability as binary. It is possible that economic sustainability is binary, and progressive characterizations of SSCM could be the reason behind the results favoring economic performance over environmental and social.

The purpose of this paper is to introduce an alternative approach to the FE modelling and simulation of complex gear trains, such as the Wolfrom planetary system, in order to study their overload capacity. This is a challenging task because of the following: first, multiple contacts occur between complex geometric parts. Second, the model has to be solved for many instances in order to determine the relative position of the planetary system members at which the maximum bending stress and surface pressure occur. Third, the maximum allowable overloading torque has to be determined iteratively.

A Wolfrom planetary system with transmission ratio 19.2 is modelled and simulated using the finite element method. The optimum element size is selected by modelling and solving key areas of the system. Then, a complete model is built using balanced element length at the flanks and roots, with respect to low solution time and result accuracy. A single loading torque is applied at the input shaft and the load distribution results from the solution when equilibrium is achieved. The input torque is increased until the maximum allowable stress or pressure is reached.

Combining the load distribution derived from a mixed density mesh with Hertzian pressure calculations, improves the accuracy of the results and decreases the total evaluation time of overload conditions. Furthermore, meshing disturbances due to the elastic deformation of the matting tooth pairs can be identified. It is shown that in the Wolfrom reducer analysed, the limiting mode of failure is the tooth breakage, which occurs when the input torque is increased by a factor of 3.8.

The balanced element length meshing requires individually meshed key areas and additional workflow steps. In this way, the complexity is increased but the solution time minimised. Automation tools can improve the simulation process.

The balanced element length model and the result evaluation provides an improved approach of the overload capacity estimation where analytical methodologies cannot be applied.